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Computer Programming Internships Jobs in Seattle, WA

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Computer Programming Internships information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$37.6K

$73.9K

$108.7K

How much do computer programming internships jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer programming internships in Seattle, WA is $73,942.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $91,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computer Programming Intern, and why are they important?

To excel as a Computer Programming Intern, you need a foundational understanding of programming languages (such as Python, Java, or C++), problem-solving abilities, and an ongoing pursuit of a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, integrated development environments (IDEs), and basic software development tools is typically expected. Strong communication, eagerness to learn, and teamwork skills help interns adapt quickly and integrate into development projects. These skills and qualities are vital for making meaningful contributions, learning from mentors, and building a successful foundation in software development.

What types of projects can I expect to work on during a computer programming internship?

As a computer programming intern, you can expect to work on a variety of projects ranging from debugging existing code, developing new features, participating in code reviews, or assisting with software testing. Many internships also involve collaborating with other developers or cross-functional teams, giving you hands-on experience with real-world development cycles and agile methodologies. The complexity and scope of your projects will often depend on your skills and the company's needs, but you’ll typically have opportunities to contribute meaningful code and gain practical knowledge that extends beyond classroom learning.

What are computer programming internships?

Computer programming internships are short-term work experiences offered by companies or organizations to students or recent graduates interested in programming. These internships provide hands-on experience in writing code, developing software, and collaborating on technical projects under the guidance of experienced professionals. They help interns build practical skills, expand their professional networks, and improve their chances of securing a full-time job in the tech industry after graduation.

What is the difference between Computer Programming Internships vs Software Developer Internships?

AspectComputer Programming InternshipsSoftware Developer Internships
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduates in Computer Science or related fieldsSimilar; often students or recent grads in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentTech companies, startups, or corporate IT departments; focus on coding and testingSoftware firms, tech departments; involve designing, coding, and debugging applications
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech industry, software companies, and IT departmentsPrimarily in software development companies, tech startups, and IT services

Computer Programming Internships and Software Developer Internships are similar in credentials and work environment, often overlapping in industry usage. The main difference lies in scope: programming internships may focus more on coding tasks, while software developer internships often include designing and developing software applications.

What are popular job titles related to Computer Programming Internships jobs in Seattle, WA? For Computer Programming Internships jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Programming Internships jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Programming Internships jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Computer Programming Internships jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Programming Internships job openings in Seattle, WA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% As Needed, 33% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,942 per year, or $35.5 per hour.
Space Lasers Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Space Lasers Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

SpaceX

Redmond, WA

$115K - $145K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 142 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 59 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
SPACE LASERS ENGINEER, SATELLITES (STARLINK)
The Starlink Space Lasers team develops, produces, and deploys the most cutting-edge satellite free-space optical communication systems in the world. We are looking for engineers to contribute to the development of laser communications terminals and imaging products for the groundbreaking constellation of Starlink satellites. All SpaceX optical systems (laser communication terminal and other optical products) require a blend of theoretical expertise, practical implementation skills, and a passion for solving complex problems in real-time, resource-constrained systems.
As a SpaceX optical engineer, you will be responsible for free-space optical system design, validation, and operation. You will shape the future of laser communication systems and directly contribute to mission-critical applications such as next-generation star tracking system for precise navigation in space environments. You will build reliable, efficient systems by leading
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Apply optics and photonics knowledge to optical system development, including design, analysis, and validation
  • Represent the optical system in program-level, cross-disciplinary trades and issue resolution
  • Define requirements for high-performant optical systems in challenging environmental conditions
  • Lead optical architecture definition through internal trade studies, concept of operations definition, and risk reduction testing
  • Participate in verification testing, including environmental qualification, performance characterization, reliability testing, and fault injection testing
  • Define and lead field testing of optical experiments and laser communication systems
  • Review test data and lead anomaly investigation and resolution
  • Maintain link budgets, design specifications, and system capabilities data
  • Interface with manufacturing and supply chain teams to ensure final designs can be manufactured in accordance with overall project goals
  • Collaborate with software and automation teams to develop tools and protocols for automated optical testing
  • Represent laser communications systems for reliability and risk discussions with internal reliability teams, management, customers, and vendors

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in physics, computer science, electrical engineering, or other engineering/STEM discipline
  • 2+ years of hands-on laboratory or work experience in optics, photonics, laser technology, or precision mechanical design or testing (university lab, student project, or internship experience qualifies)
  • 1+ years of experience in a computer programming language (e.g. C++, MATLAB, and/or Python)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Master's degree or PhD in physics or an engineering discipline
  • Proficiency with optical analysis tools such as Zemax
  • Hands-on experience in optical design or system design, integration, and test of laser communication systems
  • Knowledge of and experience in lasers, photodiodes, fiber optics, optics testing/troubleshooting techniques, and signal integrity principles
  • Knowledge of and experience in free-space optical principles, optical component testing/troubleshooting techniques, precision metrology techniques, manufacturing and integration processes
  • Experience leading development of commercial communications products
  • Experience with hardware development for high-reliability applications
  • Experience with pointing, acquisition, and tracking
  • Knowledge of and experience in atmospheric optical effects
  • Ability to assess risk and make design and development decisions without all available data
  • Ability to work in a fast paced, autonomously driven, and demanding atmosphere
  • Competence with optical test equipment (power meters, interferometer, laser sources)
  • Experience with infrared system alignment and characterization
  • Competence with Python scripting and a Linux operating system environment
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Working extended hours and weekends as needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Space Lasers Engineer/Level I: $105,000.00 - $120,000.00/per year
Space Lasers Engineer/Level II: $115,000.00 - $145,000.00/per year
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
    Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to

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